Everyone has their go-to treat at Disneyland. Mine has always been the frozen banana. Yep, that controversial, hard-as-Matterhorn-concrete confection that would enjoy nothing more than taking out your tooth. Sorry, I just love it. So, imagine my horror when they disappeared from the vendor carts after the pandemic re-opening. The angst was so real I almost marched up to City Hall to air my frustration. Update: they’re back. Throw a parade. And while their return certainly put a little more magic in my day, I’m not entirely surprised they didn’t make Infatuation’s guide to “The Best Food at Disneyland, Ranked.” Truthfully, I haven’t tried all of the items on the list, but there are few standouts I’d agree are not to be missed on your next outing to “The Happiest Place on Earth.” Here are a few of favorites:
Pineapple Dole Whip
Location: Enchanted Tiki Room, Adventureland
“Surprise, surprise. The single most famous item of food at Disneyland is also the best, and if you come to the park without eating this glorious mountain of soft serve, you probably shouldn’t even tell people you came. Yes, there are lots of different flavors and add-ons these days (like the incredible chile-mango around the corner at Tropical Hideaway), but there’s still something so pure about the silky-smooth pineapple original. Whichever flavor you go with, just be sure to ask for a packet of the tajin to sprinkle on top. It’s salty, tangy, and takes this legendary dessert to a completely different level.”
Only available through mobile pre-order.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
Location: Cafe Orleans, New Orleans Square
“Look up “Not giving a flying f*ck” in the dictionary and you will find the picture of every person who’s ever ordered this beautiful caloric cannon. Yes, it’s a deep-fried, sugar-coated ham-and-cheese sandwich and no, you’re not going on any more rides after this. But we say throw caution to the wind, because you’ll be rewarded with a sandwich that ranks as the very best at Disney in our books. There’s a spot to lie down and figure it out over by Matterhorn.”
The Churro
Location: Various stands
“Of all the food groups represented at Disneyland, the churro is definitely the most important. They’re basically warm cinnamon bolts of perfection and completely make up for whatever the Finding Nemo ride is about. Plus, you can find their stands all over the park, guaranteeing you’re only about 50 yards away from one at all times. Disney magic, indeed.”
Jumbo Turkey Legs
Location: Various stands
“Let’s address the elephant in the room – there isn’t a more polarizing piece of food at Disney than the turkey leg. Whether the meat is actually turkey, or emu, or ripped from the piled-up corpses in Disney jail, we can all agree it has the curb appeal of a Freddy Krueger massage circle. But fear not. This greasy mess is delicious and an easy way to let everyone else in the park know you aren’t to be f*cked with.”
